Noni Madueke and Cole Palmer
Blues Close Gap on Liverpool with 5-1 Victory at St. Mary’s
Chelsea delivered a dominant performance at St. Mary’s Stadium, thrashing a 10-man Southampton 5-1 to cut the gap to Premier League leaders Liverpool. Noni Madueke starred with a goal and an assist, while Cole Palmer continued his fine form, finding the net yet again.
Fast-Paced First Half
Chelsea wasted no time asserting themselves, taking the lead in the seventh minute when Axel Disasi capitalized on Enzo Fernandez’s pinpoint corner to head home from close range.
Southampton responded swiftly, with Joe Aribo leveling the score just four minutes later following a brilliant run and pass from Kyle Walker-Peters. However, a critical error from Southampton goalkeeper Joe Lumley allowed Noni Madueke to pounce, setting up Christopher Nkunku to tap into an empty net and restore Chelsea’s lead in the 17th minute.
Madueke added a touch of brilliance to the match, curling a stunning shot into the far corner just past the half-hour mark to extend Chelsea’s advantage. Southampton’s troubles deepened before halftime when Jack Stephens was sent off for pulling Marc Cucurella’s hair, a decision made after a VAR review.
Chelsea Dominate After the Break
With a numerical advantage, Chelsea controlled the second half and added a fourth goal when Christopher Nkunku’s shot slipped past Lumley, allowing Cole Palmer to tap in from close range. Substitute Jadon Sancho sealed the rout with a composed finish late on, capping off an emphatic display.
Implications for Both Sides
The victory brings Chelsea within seven points of Liverpool, who dropped points in a draw against Newcastle. Enzo Maresca’s side appears to be finding their rhythm as they set their sights on a top-four push.
Southampton, however, remain rooted to the bottom of the table, with 11 defeats in 14 matches. The Saints face a daunting trip to Aston Villa next, while Chelsea prepare for a London derby against Tottenham.
Chelsea’s resounding victory signals their growing confidence under Maresca, while Southampton’s struggles continue in what is shaping up to be a challenging campaign.
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